Brooklyn Nets' 115-102 home-opening win over the Milwaukee Bucks

The Brooklyn Nets came into their home opener with clear goals - beat their division rivals the Milwaukee Bucks, who they own a valuable 2025 first-round draft pick, and get new head coach Jordi Fernández his first win. They accomplished both in convincing fashion, leading wire-to-wire in a 115-102 victory.

Brooklyn set the tone early, jumping out to a 48-45 halftime lead behind strong play from center Nic Claxton (20 points, 10 rebounds) and rookie forward Noah Clowney (13 points). The Nets dominated the glass and refused to turn the ball over, playing a clean and efficient first half.

In the third quarter, All-Star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo finally asserted himself for Milwaukee, but Brooklyn had an answer as guards Cam Thomas (game-high 32 points) and Dennis Schröder (29 points) stepped up their scoring. The Nets won the period and took a 90-79 lead into the fourth.

Thomas and Schröder stayed hot in the final frame while the Nets swarmed Antetokounmpo defensively and clamped down for key stops. Clowney and reserve forward Ziaire Williams provided a huge spark off the bench as Brooklyn pulled away for the comfortable 13-point victory.

Coach Fernández credited Thomas for his engagement on both ends and leadership in running the offense efficiently. The Nets won almost all of the key statistical battles, including points in the paint, three pointers made, and turnovers. It was a complete team effort that showed the potential Brooklyn has to be a tough out all season long.

Beating the Bucks and their draft pick was clearly a priority, and the Nets played like it. They set the tone on opening night that they will compete hard each game no matter the expectations for this season.